Just like the BMW X5 eHybrid, the 530Le combine a four-cylinder IC engine (the familiar N20) and a ZF 8-speed automatic transmission. Instead of the usual torque converter the 530Le inserts an electric motor.

The conventional engine produces 242 horsepower for an overall power output of around 272 horsepower.

BMW 530Le offers lowest fuel consumption of 2.1 liters per 100 km and the lowest CO2 emissions, 49g/km, in its segment. In pure electric mode, the 530Le will have a range of 58km, and a top speed of 120km/hr.

Planned to officially hit the market early next year, the BMW 540Le plug-in hybrid is produced in Shenyang, Liaoning province.